Lizard Essay

Lacertilla, also known as lizards have been thought to arise around the end of the Triassic period even though there are no known fossilized lizards in this age. The earliest fossilized lizards appeared in the middle of the Jurassic period, making the fossils around 165 and 185 million years old. There are over 4,500 species of lizards, creating the most diverse group of Squamates, with each one having a unique biome it has adapted to. Lizards occupy habitats throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. They also live on many tropical islands in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans. One of many of these lizards is the Flying Dragon Lizard that resides in the deciduous forest and the rain forest. The Flying Dragon Lizard is around 8 inches long (although it can reach sizes from 19-23 centimeters), slim, and has two membrane-like wings on the sides of its body. The lizard itself is usually brown or grey while its wings are very colorful. The Flying Dragon Lizard avoids land, a place where they are easy victims for other predators. They stay to the trees, and if they are threatened- jump, and safely glide to another tree. The Flying Dragon Lizard has been known to parachute as far as 60 meters, using their tails to direct their descent. Their wings have other uses then a quick escape though, when folded they provide a great camouflage. When the wings and dewlap are extended, the lizard becomes intimidating to other animals. Mating season is the only time the Flying Dragon Lizard sets a foot on the forest floor. The males attract the females by showing off their bright yellow throat flap, the females then force their head into the ground to make a nest then lays between 1-4 eggs. The female Flying Dragon Lizard will guard her nest for only a mere 24 hours before leaving it forever. If you were to stride into the temperate forests of Europe and parts of Russia you would find the Legless Lizard. Often mistaken for a snake by their